The NYPD has arrested a suspect for torching the popular ‘Mitzvah Bus’ in Crown Heights last month.

Joseph Jackson, 30, of Brownsville, has been charged with third-degree arson and criminal mischief in connection with the June 26 incident. Police uncovered footage of Jackson purchasing matches at a nearby bodega, before making his way to Troy Ave and Maple Street and setting the parked bus aflame.

Jackson has a history of setting fires. In 2002, then 15-year-old Jackson was arrested for starting several fires in Queens. At the time, the NY Daily News reported he was an aspiring fireman who would set the fires, then stay at the scene to watch the FDNY in action.

The converted mini-yellow school bus is owned by Jewish artist Leviticus Schieber, and was painted over with Jewish imagery, including a Torah and menorah. It was recently featured in the popular music video of Benny Friedman’s hit song “Ivri Anochi,” and was well recognized in the Crown Heights community.

(Nat Golden – YWN)